As December begins, the piece profiles preseason playoff odds for teams like the Jets, Maple Leafs, Panthers, and Oilers, comparing them to current standings and noting whether their implied chances have risen or fallen.

It argues there is value where markets haven’t fully adjusted to current performance, highlighting the Sharks at 11-1 and the Blackhawks at +700 as potential bets.

Markets show a cluster of teams with similar point totals, suggesting big swings are driven more by parity and short-term results than by clear changes in true strength.

Parity and overtime point inflation have compressed the standings and influenced odds movements across both conferences.

Under parity, the betting strategy favors finding teams poised to breakout rather than chasing the favorites, and spotting lines not yet updated for evolving circumstances.

The analysis maintains an analytical, probabilistic tone, delivering method-based projections and market commentary rather than narrative storytelling.

Award odds are tracked alongside futures, with notable shifts in Hart, Norris, Vezina, and Calder projections, including rising momentum for Connor Bedard and a drop for Leon Draisaitl.

Moves are highlighted for teams with large preseason-to-now swings, such as the Maple Leafs, Canucks, Panthers, and Ducks, alongside a broader list reaching about 20% changes including the Predators, Rangers, Blues, and Flyers.

San Jose Sharks are spotlighted as underappreciated by markets, with a favorable strength-of-schedule outlook that could push them into a West playoff position despite 11-1 odds.